Just popping in to share an Underdog update…and to take a much needed break from packing and moving…

After moving a load of stuff to the apartment this past weekend, we stopped by the Underdog to take a peek at the work going on to once and for all vault the ceilings.

The custom engineered wood ridge beam had been installed to provide structural support for the roof.  I could finally really feel what our open kitchen/living space is going to look like.

Removing a few walls and opening up the original 8′ ceilings makes the entire space look and feel so much bigger.  And we haven’t changed the footprint of the house at all.

It’s a little lodge-esque right now with all the wood showing.  At one point, I was worried that the living room mantel was overpowering the space because it’s so massive, but opening up vertical space above it has helped to tame it don’t you think?

That’s the view looking in from the dining room/mudroom for a different perspective.  While Handy Hubby and I knew that vaulting the ceiling would help to make our new space feel airier, we’re both a little shocked at the overall effect when we stand in the great room.  It’s like a totally different space!

Things are looking up.

images:  Dana Miller for House*Tweaking